Tummy Tuck

Abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fatty tissue from the middle and lower abdomen and to tighten muscles of the abdominal wall. Different techniques are used, depending on the problem.

If a small area of excess fat is found in the anterior abdominal wall, with no loose skin, liposuction is performed (see liposuction). If a small excess of skin is the problem a mini tummy tuck is performed, with or without liposuction. Lastly, a full tummy tuck involves a larger scar, which is made as a high-cut (in a natural line inside the pelvic bones). The umbilicus (belly button) is repositioned after the excess skin has been removed while the rectus muscles may be tightened. Abdominoplasty can be performed at the same time with other elective surgeries. These procedures can dramatically reduce the appearance of a protruding abdomen.

Abdominoplasty is not a surgical treatment for being overweight. Individuals who intend to lose weight should postpone all forms of body contouring surgery until they have been able to maintain their weight loss.